[Board] Lets focus on being effective

[Cameron Shorter]

OSGeo board,
I'm disappointed that the last board meeting didn't seem to be as 
professional and effective as it could have been.

Firstly, I'm very disappointed with myself, for forgetting to wake up in 
time to attend. I only arrived at the tail end of the meeting. I'm sorry.

But secondly, I'm disappointed with the emotional and ineffective way 
some very important issues were discussed. Complaining about how much 
work is being expected or done by someone,  referring to opinions 
gathered privately, and complaining about being out of pocket without 
addressing specific or holistic actions is a sub-optimal way for a board 
to work.

A very valid issue was highlighted, in that the OSGeo president should 
not be out of pocket financially while taking on the role of president.
There is a significant amount of work that a president can take on, and 
a limited amount of time. We are right to question whether we should 
financially compensate people for taking on some of these roles, or 
whether we leave some tasks un-actioned.
Such discussions need to be holistic. As Dirk has mentioned, if we are 
to spend money, we need to create money (through chasing membership or 
sponsorship fees, or conference surpluses, or ...), and we need to cover 
accountability for the money spent. Handling money adds a lot of 
overhead to an organisation, which has its downsides as well.

Let us continue these discussions in an effective manner.

-- 
Cameron Shorter,
Software and Data Solutions Manager
LISAsoft
Suite 112, Jones Bay Wharf,
26 - 32 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009

P +61 2 9009 5000,  W www.lisasoft.com,  F +61 2 9009 5099